Now Is the Time

If you're ever going to love me,
Love me now,
While I can know
The sweet tender feelings,
Which from true affections flow.
Love me now,
While I am living,
Do not wait until I am gone,
And then have it chiseled in marble,
Sweet words on ice stone.
If you ever have tender thoughts of me
Please tell me now.
If you wait until I am sleeping,
Never to awaken
There will be death between us,
And I won't hear you then.
So if you love me,
Even a little bit,
Let me know while I am living,
So I can treasure it.

I don't remember who wrote this untitled poem, but I kept it with me for a few years. I would take it out and reflect on those simple yet powerful lines from time to time. A friend wrote and said she'd be so happy to see me after I get out. That's cool. However, my life is so full of uncertainties that I don't even know from one day to the next where I may be. I many never get a chance to see those who're expecting to see me.

I'm reminded not to put off things I can do now until later.